LOS ANGELES—Each month, United in Peace organizes Peace Rides that traverse neighborhoods across Los Angeles and surrounding areas, aiming to bridge divides and foster dialogue among residents of different cultures, races, and faiths. More than a procession of motorcycles and automobiles, these events are designed to engage communities, especially those that have experienced violence or division, by distributing peace-oriented materials such as The Way to Happiness booklet and the Million Man March pledge.
The rides bring together bikers, low-riders, clergy, community leaders, car and motorcycle clubs, and concerned citizens. Participants travel through neighborhoods and parks, spreading a message of unity and encouraging residents to see one another as members of the same community. The goal is to challenge perceptions that divide communities and take meaningful steps toward peace through greater understanding, respect, and cooperation.
At the conclusion of each ride, a Peace Festival is held, where residents and participants gather to celebrate. Festivals feature professional performers in hip-hop, R&B, and gospel, alongside local talent. The organization describes this approach as “edutainment”—a blend of education, community engagement, and entertainment designed to create an environment where people can connect.
The Peace Rides have received support from the Los Angeles Police Department, which assists with safety along routes and at stops. During the rides, residents frequently wave, make peace signs, and show support, reflecting growing familiarity with the events. Over 14 years, United in Peace has distributed more than 70,000 copies of The Way to Happiness and reached more than 2.4 million people through events and media coverage.
United in Peace points to encouraging changes in violence rates in communities where events have taken place. An LAPD captain noted that over the same 14-year period, the violent death rate in South Los Angeles decreased by as much as 40% at times. While many factors contribute to such changes, United in Peace believes its sustained efforts to promote unity and peaceful cooperation play a meaningful role.
The organization has received commendations and proclamations from mayors of multiple cities and members of Congress. United in Peace welcomes organizations, community groups, congregations, civic leaders, and individuals committed to building safer, more connected communities. Nonprofits promoting peace or providing community services may apply to host informational booths at monthly Peace Festivals. For more information, visit @peacerideLA on Instagram.
The Way to Happiness booklet, written by humanitarian and Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, has been provided for more than 14 years by the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International, a founder of the Peace Rides. The booklet is available at www.thewaytohappiness.org.
